Horticulture Minister Bharat Gogawale Visits Strawberry Farm in Ozharde Village of Wai Taluka

Satara, Jan 2026 : Horticulture, Employment Guarantee and Saline Land Development Minister Bharat Gogawale visited the strawberry farms of growers Mahadev Koli and Parshuram Birajdar in Ozharde village of Wai taluka and inspected strawberry cultivation firsthand. During the visit, Minister Gogawale gathered detailed information about strawberry farming practices, nurseries, production capacity, marketing, cost–income calculations, and the challenges faced by farmers.

He noted that high-value crops like strawberries are extremely beneficial for increasing farmers’ income. Assuring full support through the Horticulture Department, the minister said that all necessary assistance would be provided to farmers. Highlighting the success of strawberry cultivation in the Ozharde area, Minister Gogawale especially appreciated young farmers who are using modern technology, drip irrigation, and improved planting material.

He further stated that the region comprising Mahabaleshwar, Wai, Koregaon, and Jaoli talukas is highly suitable for strawberry cultivation and horticulture. The government is making efforts to promote strawberries, fruit orchards, and processing industries by encouraging the establishment of processing units under the SMART and PMFME schemes.

On this occasion, progressive farmer Sagar Phatak and local villagers were also present.